Protraction Headgear Information
Today you have received your headgear. There are some very important things we want
you to remember....
- Dr. Way wants you to wear the headgear AT LEAST 14
HOURS EVERY DAY!! It does not have to be 14 consecutive hours, so wear it to bed
and then add the extra hours anywhere you can. When you come home from school where
it while you do homework, take it off for dinner, then put it back on again. Do
not wear your headgear while playing outside or if you are "rough-housing"
inside. If you are going to spend the night at a friend’s house you need to
take your headgear with you. Explain what it is to your friends, and then put it
on. It is very important that you wear it consistently!
- After expanding the palate there is a 3-month "window
of opportunity" when we will achieve the best results from your headgear. If
you do not wear the headgear at least 14 hours a day, every day, for the first three
months we will not be able to get the movement that is needed. If you miss the window
of opportunity you may have to have surgery when you are older. It is much easier
to wear your headgear now!
- Remember to record your hours on the headgear sheets
that are provided.
- Change your rubber bands every day unless you are instructed
otherwise.
- DO not put any lotions or moisturizers on the skin
before putting the headgear on. It will trap the moisture and can cause irritation.
Use the fleece pads that are provided every time you wear your headgear.
- Bring your headgear and charts with you to every appointment.